THE OFFICIAL YOGA PROGRAM OF THE NEW YORK ROAD RUNNERS CLUB

Power Yoga is a unique combination of dynamic breathing and strong, flowing movement, which creates a high-heat, high-energy workout. Unlike any other yoga program, Power Yoga is a choreographed sequence of postures that flow into one another, building strength, unwinding tight joints, and loosening muscles. Beautiful photographs and clear instructions guide you through this effective and popular routine.

Based on the classical and original yoga system called astanga, Power Yoga is a complete mind and body workout that develops concentration and reduces stress. With its focus on mindful breathing and body heat, Power Yoga goes beyond the relaxation benefits of traditional yoga to offer a route to health and fitness that athletes of all levels will embrace.

Average Customer Review: ( 50 customer reviews )
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If you're looking for an exercise routine, you can't do better than this.

Astanga yoga builds strength, flexiblity, stamina, discipline and mental quiet. It won't change your life overnight. But bit by bit as you start to feel healthier, and better about your body, the way you perceive the world changes as well. But everything comes very slowly, as it should.

23 of 23 found the following review helpful:

Great Book!Apr 09, 1999

This book is a must have for anyone interested in realigning their body and overcoming injury. While most of us will never duplicate some of the more difficult poses, with practice - most of them can be achieved. The author makes it very clear that mastering this yoga work is not done quickly or easily. Do not buy this book if you are not willing to work hard. This book is geared mainly toward preventing and recovering from injury - realigning the body thru strength and stretch work. There is quite a bit of text dealing with injury and misalignment - explaining the benefits and process of healing. Also explained in great detail is the proper breathing technique for this practice. The breath is an important part of *heating up* the body. This heat enables the body to perform the stretch work safely. The only complaint I have about this book is that the picture labeling is difficult to follow. If the book is reprinted, this should be addressed.

29 of 31 found the following review helpful:

A Useful Guide to Power YogaDec 11, 2000
By K. Fromal "kristinof"
I purchased Power Yoga after attending classes at my gym, since I wanted a yoga workout that I could do at home. This book certainly has served that purpose, and it following the workout increased my strength and flexibility tremendously. The pictures are very helpful in getting into the various poses from the series. There is also a great deal of information in the book concerning yoga history and practices which was interesting for a beginner. The biggest problem that I have had with the book is that I think that it would be very difficult for someone who had never taken a yoga class with a live teacher to understand what is called for by some of the positions. I believe that this book is best used as a home supplement to taking a yoga class with an experienced teacher who can guide the student through the asanas (postures) and help correct them if need be. The book also does not really discuss meditation before or after a workout, which I have found to be tremendously relaxing.

29 of 33 found the following review helpful:

too much fluffJan 19, 2002
By Mark
This book could have been half as long if Birch wasn't so interested in talking about herself. For the most part, this is book about why Birch practices yoga.

Certainly there is a lot of quality content here, but it is sparse and has been covered more thoroughly by other authors (Schiffmann and Farhi for philosophy, Kraftsow for yoga therapy, and David Swenson for asanas).

The program which Birch recommends is basically a watered-down ashtanga yoga workout in the primary series, with a few embellishments.

When this book was initially released, it would have been a very valuable addition to any yogi's library. However, with the current selection of books and videos covering this subject, it has become obsolete and unneccessary.

11 of 11 found the following review helpful:

fantastic if you take the time to read & practiceJun 18, 1999

This book has changed my life. If you take the time to read her instructions, this book will teach you, step by step how to properly practice astanga yoga.

Beware -- many of the positions are impossible to start off with, that's why she includes several work arounds for those not flexible enough to hold the positions yet. These workarounds are what prevent you from getting hurt and gradually teach your body to be able to do all the difficult positions.

Since starting astanga, I am becoming as flexible as when I was a child and stronger than during my years of weight lifting. My running, posture and sleeping have also improved as has my sense of general well being.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is almost as good as having a personal trainer with you as she walks you through every single position and transition between positions.

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